This year we will put out 4000 Mason bee cocoons in 10 acres of blueberries. There will be a random mix of males and females. The number of nests required is 75% of the number of cocoons released or 3000. In the picture below we are cutting the kraft paper that is used to line the nests.

As we approach this year’s blueberry pollination there are two questions that are foremost in our minds.

Is there a symbiotic relationship between the honeybee and the Mason bee with the honeybee going for nectar and the Mason bee seeking pollen. The net result is more bee visits per flower resulting in better pollination.

Can extra forage be used to attract virgin bumblebee queens and drones to our farm after they leave their nest in the fall. This should result in a bigger bumblebee population next spring.